All Flashcards
Define a vertical asymptote.
A vertical line that the graph of a function approaches but never touches, where the function's value goes to infinity (or negative infinity).
What is a rational function?
A function of the form , where and are polynomial functions.
Define the multiplicity of a zero.
The number of times its corresponding factor appears in the polynomial.
What is a 'hole' in a rational function?
A point where both the numerator and denominator of a rational function are zero. It is a removable discontinuity.
Explain how denominator zeros relate to vertical asymptotes.
If makes the denominator zero and the numerator non-zero, then there's a potential vertical asymptote at .
What happens if a zero appears in both the numerator and denominator?
It might indicate a 'hole' in the graph rather than a vertical asymptote.
Explain the impact of multiplicity on vertical asymptotes.
If the multiplicity of a zero in the denominator is greater than in the numerator, there's a vertical asymptote. Higher difference means faster approach to infinity.
Describe the behavior of a function near a vertical asymptote.
As approaches a vertical asymptote from the left or right, the function approaches either positive or negative infinity.
How do limits relate to vertical asymptotes?
One-sided limits approaching a vertical asymptote will tend towards or .
What are the differences between vertical asymptotes and holes?
Vertical Asymptotes: Occur when the denominator is zero, and the numerator is non-zero. Function approaches infinity. | Holes: Occur when both numerator and denominator are zero. Represent removable discontinuities.